03/10/2024
Get inspired for National Curry Week!
National Curry Week in the UK is a celebration of one of the nation's favourite cuisines. While some might think curry is too spicy or complex for kids, there are plenty of delicious and mild curry recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
National Curry Week is a great time to explore some more flavour profiles into your list of weekly go-to home made meals. Here are 7 of our top curry recipes that kids will love.
Chicken Korma
Chicken Korma is a fantastic entry-level curry for kids. It's known for its mild and creamy sauce, which makes it a hit with young taste buds. To prepare this dish, you'll need boneless chicken pieces, yogurt, ground almonds, and a blend of aromatic spices. Serve it with fluffy rice and naan bread, and watch your kids fall in love with the flavours of India.
Fun fact: Korma is said to have originated in the 16th century and has its roots in the Mughlai (royal) cuisine of the Indian subcontinent. The white korma is said to have been served to Shah Jahan and his guests at the inauguration of the Taj Mahal.
Vegetable Tikka Masala
For vegetarian or vegan families, Vegetable Tikka Masala is a crowd-pleaser. This dish is packed with colourful vegetables marinated in a tomato-based sauce enriched with cream or coconut milk. The flavours are mild yet full-bodied, making it perfect for introducing kids to the world of curry.
Fun fact: People still can't agree on the origins of this dish. The most popular theory is that it was invented by Ali Ahmed Aslam, chef at Shish Mahal restaurant in Glasgow in the 1970's. Others believe it to be a twist on the more traditional butter chicken dish. Whatever the truth is, it's one of the UK's most popular dishes!
Easy vegetable tikka masala recipe
Sweet Potato and Lentil Curry
Sweet potato and lentil curry is a healthy and hearty choice for kids. It combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavour of lentils, resulting in a mildly spiced, kid-friendly curry. It's not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, making it a win-win for parents.
Fun fact: Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamin A. One cup of cooked sweet potato can provide more than 100% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin A.
Easy sweet potato and lentil curry recipe
Butter Chicken
Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a classic favorite among curry enthusiasts. The sauce is creamy, rich, and slightly sweet, making it a great option for kids who are new to Indian cuisine. Serve it with some warm naan or rice, and your kids will be asking for seconds.
Fun fact: Butter chicken was created in 1947 by Kundan Lal Gujral, a chef at Moti Mahal restaurant in Delhi. It gets its name from how much yoghurt and butter are used in its recipe (the word makhani means luxurious).
Aloo Gobi
Aloo gobi is a popular dish in India with multiple variations. The prime components; potatoes and cauliflower, are readily available and affordable and by introducing an extra dimension of layers of spice, is a great way to get kids eating more vegetables!
Fun fact: Said to have it's origins in Northern India, aloo gobi is also popular in Nepal and Pakistan. Cauliflower was actually introduced to India in 1822 by Dr Jemson, a botanist from Kew who managed the Company Gardens in Saharanpur in the United Provinces (present-day Uttar Pradesh).
Easy aloo gobi recipe or roasted aloo gobi recipe
Paneer Tikka Masala
Paneer, a type of Indian cheese, is a kid-friendly ingredient that can be the star of your curry. Paneer Tikka Masala combines marinated paneer cubes with a creamy tomato sauce. It's mild, slightly tangy, and a great way to introduce kids to Indian flavours while incorporating dairy into their diet.
Fun fact: Paneer is likened to cottage cheese. There are theories that it was brought over to India by either the Portugese, or came from Persia. Either way, it's a great ingredient for dishes with sauces, as it doesn't melt.
Easy paneer tikka masala recipe
Mild Fish Curry
For families who enjoy seafood, a mild fish curry is a delightful choice. Opt for white fish fillets like cod or haddock and cook them in a coconut milk or tomato-based sauce with mild spices. The result is a tender and flavourful dish that's perfect for kids.
Fun fact: With it's enormous coastline, fish is a popular dish in India. Each area has a distinct cooking identity and West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and the North Eastern states form the heart of fish delicacies in the country.
Easy coconut fish curry recipe
Of course, whilst these are the main events, let's not forget the options to soak up all those amazing flavours! Try your hand at making some light and fluffy naan, try some delicate chapati's or up your game with some authentic pilau rice.
National Curry Week in the UK is the perfect opportunity to explore the diverse and delicious world of curry with your kids. These kid-friendly curry recipes offer a gateway to introducing your little ones to the rich and aromatic flavours of Indian cuisine.
Whether you opt for a creamy Chicken Korma or a flavorful Vegetable Tikka Masala, you're sure to create lasting culinary memories during this week-long celebration. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to spice up your family dinners!